Small Steps, Big Views: A Walk Along the Valley and up the Hill.

On a sun-drenched summer day, I embarked on a camera-in-hand adventure along the Rochdale Canal. Starting at Bridge 3 (Rose Grove), I followed the waterway towards Luddendenfoot, capturing the tranquil beauty of the towpath and passing under bridges 4 and 5. After reaching Bridge 6 (Station Road) at Luddendenfoot, I ventured inland, ascending a winding track through lush woodlands and grassy meadows towards the township of Warley. My journey culminated at the hill top overlooking the Luddenden Valley with Oats Royd Mill at Booth an outstanding industrial structure in the distance.

I took the pictures below on the 28th July 2024 with a Nikon d3300, they can also be seen in a higher resolution on Clickasnap by clicking any image.

Rose Grove Bridge, Number 3 over the Rochdale Canal.

The Rochdale Canal, pictured between Bridge 3 (Rose Grove) and Bridge 4 (Longbottom) on a stretch of the canal at Tenterfields between Sowerby Bridge and Luddendenfoot.

Bridge 6 over the Rochdale Canal, Station Road Bridge is just off Burnley Road and used to provide access to Luddendenfoot Railway Station which closed in 1962. The station would probably be a busy little halt now with all the housing developments that have completed in the local area since its closure.

The previous 2 pictures were taken on the walk up from Luddenden to Warley. Although the 2nd picture looks like a dried up river bed I believe it to be a footpath that suffers from drainage problems when the weather is wet, which in Northern England is quite often.

Oats Royd Mill, Booth.

Sometimes called Moggy's Mill, Oats Royd Mill was built in stages between 1842 and 1886. It was a worsted spinning mill until 1984 when it was separated into units occupied by several different industries. Large parts of the buildings were badly damaged by fire in February 1989. Despite local opposition the remaining buildings were converted in to private housing.

The Luddenden Valley pictured from Deep Lane, Warley.

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Nature's Masterpiece: Hardcastle Crags Set 2

Nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire, near the charming town of Hebden Bridge, lies a hidden gem: Hardcastle Crags. This enchanting wooded valley, also known as Hebden Dale, is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and families seeking a breath of fresh air. Owned and managed by the National Trust, Hardcastle Crags offers a tranquil escape into a world of lush greenery, tumbling streams, and fascinating history.

From the moment you step into the valley, you'll be captivated by its beauty. The towering trees create a verdant canopy overhead, dappling the sunlight that filters through to the forest floor. The air is filled with the soothing sounds of the Hebden Water as it rushes and tumbles along the valley bottom, carving its way through the landscape.

Hardcastle Crags is a place for exploration. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a gentle stroll, there are paths to suit every ability. The network of trails winds through the valley, offering stunning views of the crags themselves – dramatic rock formations that jut out from the hillside, showcasing the power of nature. Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this valley home; from vibrant wildflowers to the elusive kingfisher, there's always something to discover.

A highlight of any visit to Hardcastle Crags is Gibson Mill. This fascinating 19th-century mill, now a visitor centre, offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Learn about the mill's history and the lives of the people who worked there, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in the cafe. The mill is a perfect spot to take a break during your explorations and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

The beauty and importance of Hardcastle Crags haven't gone unnoticed over the years. It's a testament to the power of community that this precious landscape has been protected from development. The valley has been the subject of reservoir proposals on several occasions, but thanks to the tireless efforts of local residents and conservationists, these plans have been successfully fought off, preserving this natural wonderland for generations to come.

Hardcastle Crags is more than just a pretty place; it's a vital part of the local ecosystem and a cherished space for the community. It's a place to connect with nature, to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the natural world.

Planning your visit:

• Location: Near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
• Managed by: National Trust
• Highlights: Woodland walks, Hebden Water, Gibson Mill, stunning crags
• Perfect for: Hiking, family days out, nature lovers
• Don't forget: Your walking boots!

So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful escape, make sure to add Hardcastle Crags to your list. You won't be disappointed by the magic that awaits you in this beautiful corner of West Yorkshire.

Taken on September 10th, 2016 with a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. The picture i took have been split into 3 sets, this is set 2. Clicking any image below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Widdop Road Bridge.

Gibson Mill

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The Summit Tunnel: A Testament to Victorian Engineering and Resilience

The Pennines, a formidable range of hills in Northern England, presented a significant obstacle to the burgeoning railway network of the 19th century. But where there's a will, there's a way, and the Victorians, with their characteristic ingenuity, carved a path through the heart of these hills: the Summit Tunnel. This 1.6-mile marvel of engineering, connecting Littleborough in Greater Manchester with Walsden in West Yorkshire, stands as a testament to the vision and determination of its builders, and a fascinating story of both triumph and challenge.

Construction of the Summit Tunnel began in 1837 under the watchful eye of the legendary George Stephenson. This ambitious project aimed to create a crucial rail link between the industrial powerhouses of Leeds and Manchester. The sheer scale of the undertaking is staggering. Around a thousand navvies toiled for four years, excavating through the unforgiving terrain. Tragically, nine men lost their lives during the construction, a stark reminder of the dangers faced by these pioneering workers.

The numbers involved in the tunnel's construction are truly impressive: 23 million bricks and 8,000 tonnes of concrete were used. The final cost, a staggering £285,000, significantly overran the initial budget of £97,000, highlighting the challenges inherent in such a monumental task. Upon its opening in 1841, the Summit Tunnel briefly held the title of the longest tunnel in the world, a testament to Stephenson's ambition and skill. He considered it his greatest piece of railway engineering, famously declaring, "I stake my reputation and my head that the tunnel will never fail so as to injure any human life."

For nearly a century and a half, the tunnel served as a vital artery, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the Pennines. Its continuous service was only interrupted by a dramatic event in 1984. A goods train carrying petrol tankers derailed within the tunnel, triggering a devastating fire. The inferno raged for two days, capturing national attention and raising serious concerns about the tunnel's structural integrity. The fire brigade battled tirelessly to bring the blaze under control, finally issuing the stop signal on Christmas Eve. The aftermath saw the tunnel closed for eight months.

The fire, while dramatic, ultimately revealed the resilience of Stephenson's masterpiece. Despite the intense heat, the brick lining held firm, requiring only minimal repairs. Approximately half a mile of track and the electrical services needed replacing, and some of the air shafts required reinforcement. Before the tunnel was reopened, local residents were given the opportunity to walk through it, a gesture that underscored the community's connection to this vital piece of infrastructure. Train services between Todmorden and Littleborough resumed on August 19, 1985.

The Summit Tunnel stands as a powerful symbol of Victorian engineering prowess. It's a story of vision, hard work, tragedy, and ultimately, resilience. From its construction in the 19th century to its dramatic encounter with fire in the 20th, the tunnel has played a crucial role in the history of the region. It continues to serve as a vital transportation link today, a testament to the enduring legacy of George Stephenson and the men who built this remarkable feat of engineering.

The pictures below were taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on November 14, 2013. The feature is the tunnel's eastern portal, a few of the tunnel's air shafts, and a number taken from the hills above the tunnel looking down into the valley and landscapes below. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The following 2 short films were taken at the tunnels Northern (Western) portal.

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This shows a Leeds bound train leaving the tunnel in the direction of Walsden. It was filmed in August 2017.

This was filmed in November 2013 and shows a Manchester bound pacer train entering the tunnel.

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All the pictures and video remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Exploring Scammonden from the Bridge

During a recent trip near Scammonden, I took the opportunity to film the area from the bridge that crosses the M62. This bridge, a fascinating landmark in its own right, goes by several names: Scammonden Bridge, a name that recalls the village submerged during the construction of the motorway and dam; Rainbow Bridge, perhaps inspired by the views it affords; and Brown Cow Bridge, a local moniker referencing a now-closed inn.

The bridge carries the B6114 road over the M62, which at this point sits at over 310 metres above sea level. The exposed location makes it susceptible to strong winds, a factor that once led the now-closed local school to provide a taxi service for children crossing the bridge during particularly blustery weather. Beneath the bridge, the M62, a vital artery connecting Liverpool and Hull, stretches across the north of England. Just west of the bridge lies the highest point on any motorway in England.

My videos offer eight distinct views of the surrounding area, including Stott Hall Farm, the impressive overflow of Booth Wood Reservoir, the substantial Scammonden Dam, and the panoramic natural beauty of the landscape. One of the videos is presented as a timelapse to offer a condensed viewing experience. Both videos are complemented by the evocative sounds of Kevin MacLeod's "Digya."

The second film is over 20 minutes long. It is the same film, but at normal speed, with 8 clips lasting no more than 3 minutes each. I have not replaced the soundtrack to give some idea of how windy it was with the wind noise and shaky camera, which was at the time on a tripod.